Beginning Diving at 16 in the UK

Question
Hi, I live in the UK and am 16 years old. I have always been interested in diving and the recent Olympics has made me want to try out the sport. I have a good fitness level and go to the gym but have no experience in diving. Do you think 16 years old would be to late to start? I would like to do the sport as a hobby but if I really enjoyed it and was good at the sport would I be able to advance professionally despite my late age?

Thank You

Oliver

Answer
Oliver -

I have been getting this question a lot since the Olympic ended. I'll tell you the same thing that I have told other kids from your country - by US standards you are not too old. This is because we have high school diving and other competitive diving leagues all over the states. England however, probably does not have the same number of diving programs as we do that have room for all ages and abilities. You should not wait any longer to start diving and need to find a coach right away that will take a new student your age. They will be able to tell you if you would be able to advance professionally in your country.I can only answer that part of your question for American divers.

Go to this website to find a team: www.diving-gbdf.com

www.diving.about.com - site that explains the sport

Good luck and get started today!